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Rhoda Bowman
Vacation Consultant

News & Notes

January 2026

The world awaits you - early bird discounts until 25 February*

The magic of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises voyages can be felt long before their small ships set sail: curiosity about new worlds, a longing for the unknown, freedom and exclusivity.

For the 2026/27 season, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has voyages in store that leave nothing to be desired. Book your dream cruise to extraordinary destinations now: Scandinavia in winter, Western Europe and the Mediterranean, European island worlds, Africa and the Indian Ocean, Oceania, America, the Arctic as well as the Antarctic and the Chilean fjords. Until 25 Feb 2026, you can receive an early booking discount of up to US$ 1,650 on select cruises*. 

UNFORGETTABLE WITH ALL THE SENSES

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises stands for cruises beyond the ordinary: Plenty of space for a small number of guests, access to remote harbors, hidden bays and cultural treasures as well as exclusive culinary indulgence that reaches for the stars. Whether you’re in search of some luxurious relaxation, a casual lifestyle or a real expedition – experience winter and summer from a new perspective with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: exclusive, curated and with blissful anticipation.

Exclusive offers

  • Book by 25 February 2026 and save up to US$1,650 per person on select 2026/27 cruises*

  • For all voyages starting from 03 January 2026, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ guests will enjoy a complimentary selection of soft drinks and hot beverages like coffee and tea specialties – an exclusive comfort that makes the travel experience even more enjoyable.

7 SPECIAL FEATURES THAT MAKE EVERY MOMENT WITH HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES UNFORGETTABLE

  • Moments filled with perfection that resonates in every detail: casual luxury and a personal atmosphere with the best cruise fleet in the world (according to Insight Guides 2025)
  • Unique itineraries around the world: reach destinations that seem unattainable
  • Wishes are fulfilled before they are even expressed: perfect service and a crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:1
  • At home anywhere in the world: unlimited freedom thanks to generous space for a maximum of 230 or 500 guests (199 on Antarctica cruises and the circumnavigation of Svalbard)
  • Culinary highlights – inspired, created and prepared by Michelin-starred chefs
  • Delve into exciting and inspiring topics with renowned personalities and experts from the fields of culture, science and entertainment
  • Travel the world – and preserve nature: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises combines a variety of smaller- and larger-scale measures to continuously improve their environmental performance 

THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL REGIONS ARE WAITING FOR YOU IN 2026/2027

  • The Arctic – white wonderland: Svalbard, Greenland, the Canadian Arctic and as a highlight the Northwest Passage
  • Antarctica and the chilean fjords - the cruise of a lifetime: Patagonia, Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Shetland Islands, South Falkland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula and as a highlight the semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica from Ushuaia to Christchurch
  • European islands - inspiring diversity: British Isles and the Atlantic Islands off the African coast
  • Western Europe - hidden gems: From the river Elbe to the Mediterranean via the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Portugal and Spain
  • Mediterranean - timeless beauty: Italy, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, France and Spain
  • Magical Scandinavia - a winter adventure beckons: Northern lights in Norway and Lapland
  • The expanses of America - urban flair between the Pacific and the Atlantic: St Lawrence River and the Great Lakes of America, U.S. West Coast, Caribbean islands, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and the Panama Canal
  • Idyllic Oceania - true wonders of nature: South Seas island dreams including Fiji, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Tonga, Cook Islands as well as New Zealand, Australia and Indonesia
  • Africa and the Indian Ocean - in the realm of wild animals: Madagascar, Kenya, Zanzibar, South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Gambia, Senegal, the Seychelles, Mauritius and the Maldives

PURSUE NEW HORIZONS IN 2028

Hidden island gems that reveal their mysteries on thrilling explorations. Breathtaking encounters that linger for a lifetime. Destinations around the globe, spectacular wildlife and sparkling cultural treasures – when everyday life gives way to curiosity on a cruise with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, you will feel the magic of the moment deep within you.

Start making plans for 2028 now and benefit from attactive early booking disounts.

CULINARY ENJOYMENT

A Michelin-starred chef on board in person
In 2026, Hamburg-based three-star chef Kevin Fehling will be on board the EUROPA in person for eight selected cruises, indulging guests with his extraordinary world of culinary delights. As the creative mind and namesake of THE GLOBE gourmet restaurant, he combines modern haute cuisine with maritime lightness – creating a unique culinary experience at sea exclusively on board the EUROPA. With his unmistakable signature style, Fehling stands for creative cuisine of the highest quality as well as international appeal. He was recently honored at the prestigious Best Chef Awards in Milan.

Vegetarian caviar: premiere at Pearls
As the first caviar restaurant on the high seas, the Pearls on the EUROPA stands for exquisite selection, innovative creations and finely balanced menus in which the precious caviar pearls traditionally play the leading role. A total of 15 new compositions with an impressive selection of caviar have been created, along with 15 additional independent and innovative vegetarian compositions. Upon request, the vegetarian menus can also be prepared as vegan options. The vegetarian caviar is created through spherification, a process in which flavored liquids are transformed into small pearls that resemble caviar in consistency and appearance – but are completely plant-based thanks to ingredients such as yuzu, saffron tapioca, chilli pepper or Granny Smith.

What are you waiting for? Contact your Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and discover the world with all your senses!

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*Until 25 Feb 2026, you can benefit from an early booking discount of up to US$ 1,650 per person in the PLATINUM fare on an exclusive selection of cruises for the 2026/27 season. For some cruises, the early booking discount is valid until 31 May 2026.

Now is the perfect time to book your expedition.

HX Expeditions offers travelers an unmatched blend of adventure, comfort, and immersive experiences. What sets HX apart is our commitment to small-ship exploration, expert-led excursions, and curated itineraries that bring guests closer to wildlife, culture, and nature in destinations like the Arctic, Galápagos, and Norway. Whether it’s polar bear spotting, hiking remote islands, or learning from onboard naturalists, every HX voyage is designed to inspire curiosity and create unforgettable memories.

Great Savings and Newcomer Offers

HX Expeditions is currently featuring its Wave Offer, giving guests incredible savings and added value on their next adventure. Travelers can save up to $4,000 on a selection of all-inclusive expeditions, plus first-time HX guests receive a $250 onboard credit. These offers are available for a limited time, providing the perfect opportunity to explore some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations with exceptional perks.

Save up to $4,000 on a selection of all-inclusive expeditions, plus first-time HX guests receive a $250 onboard credit. Book by March 23, 2026.

  • Save up to $4,000 on up to 200 all inclusive sailings
  • Enjoy $250 onboard credit per stateroom for new to HX travelers

HX’s Fleet: Designed for Adventure, Crafted for Comfort

HX’s fleet is purpose‑built for true exploration — not glitzy mega‑cruise lines. Their ships, like MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Fram and MS Santa Cruz II are sized to balance comfort and access: large enough to carry full expedition gear, small‑boat Zodiacs and scientific equipment — yet compact enough to navigate remote coastlines, narrow fjords, and ice‑filled waters unreachable by larger ships.

What truly elevates the journey is the suite‑level accommodation. HX suites offer spacious living areas, floor‑to‑ceiling windows or private balconies (some even with outdoor tubs), walk‑in storage for gear and personal items, luxurious en‑suite bathrooms, and premium touches like welcome champagne, in‑suite espresso machines, and priority boarding.

Experts in Expedition since 1896

With 130 years of expedition experience since 1896, HX has been a pioneer in exploring the world’s most remote destinations. From early Arctic voyages to today’s small-ship adventures, HX’s legacy is built on expertise, innovation, and a deep respect for nature. This rich history informs every expedition, ensuring guests experience wildlife, culture, and landscapes with unmatched guidance and insight.

As your local travel experts, we can help you plan the perfect HX expedition, whether it’s your first voyage or a return to the wonders of the Arctic, Galápagos, or Antarctica. With purpose-built ships, luxurious suites, unparalleled expedition expertise, and 130 years of adventure under our belt, HX delivers experiences that are as comfortable as they are unforgettable — making every journey truly extraordinary.

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* Discount applies to bookings made from 04 December 2025 to 23 March 2026 (inclusive) for selected HX departures from 23 December 2025 to 31 March 2028 (inclusive). Offers with a saving, discount or amount off stated in USD represents a discount applied to the “From” price quoted in USD per person based on full occupancy of cabin on the specified sailing or Tour Code. Bookings outside of these periods do not qualify. Offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Single supplements may apply and applies to all offer occupancies. 250 USD onboard credit is valid for all newcomers who make an eligible booking and have not previously travelled with HX Expeditions. Offer is valid on all new bookings made between 04 December 2025 to 23 March 2026 and is valid on all departures between 23 December 2025 and 31 March 2028. At the time of booking, 250 EUR in onboard credit will be added to the account of each guest listed in the booking. Onboard credit is issued per person and not per cabin. Onboard credit can be used to purchase certain products or services onboard our expedition ships. This offer is combinable with other offers active at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply. Please use the code “HX-WAVE-OBC” when booking with our Expedition Specialists.

Tee Off in the Heart of Europe on the Pearls of the Danube Golf Cruise

Glide along the legendary Danube in refined style on the Pearls of the Danube Golf Cruise—a voyage designed for travellers who savor both the game and the grandeur of the journey. From Passau to Budapest, play championship courses, including Hungary’s oldest and Europe’s most celebrated greens, under the guidance of an onboard golf professional. Between rounds, indulge in Riverside’s renowned hospitality: spacious suites with dedicated butler service, an onboard spa, and cuisine crafted à la minute from the finest ingredients. This is golf elevated to an art form, where sport, culture, and sophistication unite.

A Voyage of Luxurious Inclusions

Your cruise includes four rounds of golf, with an optional fifth, each complemented by a refreshing post-game drink. Enjoy the personalized attention of Riverside’s resident golf pro, prepaid gratuities, complimentary Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry. Transfers, port charges, and service fees are included, so you can focus solely on play and exploration. Aboard the 162-guest Riverside Mozart, every suite comes with butler service, while the FEHI Spa invites relaxation after a day on the greens. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the seven-course gourmet experience in the Vintage Room.

Exclusive Offer for Expedia Cruises Guests

Set sail on the Pearls of the Danube Golf Cruise or any of Riverside Luxury Cruises’ exceptional journeys of seven nights or longer and enjoy €250 onboard credit per person.

Highlights Along the Danube

Set sail from Passau, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary, from July 23 to 29, 2026, and experience a journey that blends championship golf, cultural immersion, and refined indulgence.

  • Passau, Germany: Embark the Riverside Mozart and settle into your suite with the help of a personal Butler. Meet your onboard golf professional during a welcome dinner.
  • Grein & Melk, Austria: Explore Grein’s historic castle and Austria’s oldest active theater before heading to Melk for 18 holes and a visit to the Baroque Melk Abbey overlooking the Danube.
  • Vienna & Wachau Valley: Tee off at the European Tour–class Diamond Country Club with water hazards surrounding a 25-acre lake. Cap the day with a Riverside Signature Experience at Belvedere Palace, featuring a private concert and crowd-free viewing of Klimt’s The Kiss.
  • Vienna Exploration: Spend a full day discovering Vienna’s Baroque splendor with guided walks, panoramic sightseeing, Schönbrunn Palace, and Prater Park. Non-golfers can enjoy curated cultural excursions or leisurely city exploration.
  • Fontana Golf Club: Challenge yourself at one of Europe’s top courses located minutes from the city centre, featuring water hazards, bunkers, and scenic lake views.
  • Esztergom, Visegrad & Budapest, Hungary: Cross into Hungary overnight and play 18 holes at the historic Old Lake Golf Club, nestled at the foot of the Gerecse Mountains. Rejoin your ship in Visegrad and cruise into Budapest amid shimmering city lights. Conclude in Budapest with optional play at BOTANIQ Máriavölgyi Golf Club or curated experiences for non-golfers.

Throughout the journey, enjoy spacious suites, dedicated butler service, gourmet cuisine, and expert guidance from your onboard golf professional. Every stop, every swing, and every city along the Danube has been curated for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that elevates golf, culture, and luxury to an art form.

Signature Experiences

In Vienna, play the European Tour–class Diamond Country Club and enjoy an exclusive after-hours evening at Belvedere Palace with a private concert and Champagne reception. Explore the Baroque grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace or take an eBike through Prater Park. Every day blends activity and leisure, ensuring both golfers and explorers experience the best of Europe.

Play With a Professional

Riverside’s onboard golf pro enhances every round, providing expert tips and hosting intimate talks. Whether improving your swing or enjoying the camaraderie of shared passion, every moment is designed to elevate your game and your journey.

Unforgettable Golf and Culture

Challenge yourself at Austria’s Fontana Golf Club or Hungary’s Old Lake Golf Club, each surrounded by spectacular scenery. Between rounds, relax on deck, visit historic towns, or savor gourmet cuisine. This is a journey where every moment balances adventure, elegance, and indulgence.

The Riverside Mozart: Redefining Luxury on the Danube

Your floating sanctuary, the Riverside Mozart, redefines river cruising with all-suite accommodations, butler service, and Michelin-inspired dining. Highlights include:

  • Spacious suites with panoramic views and king-sized beds
  • Personal Butler service attending every detail with discretion and care
  • Michelin-inspired dining across multiple venues, from fine à la carte to casual tapas
  • Unlimited premium wines, Champagne, cocktails, and spirits included throughout your voyage
  • Wellness indulgences including a spa, indoor pool, and rooftop pop-up bar
  • Enrichment ashore with daily curated excursions, complimentary bicycles and e-bikes, and private transfers

Every aspect of your journey is seamless. Gratuities, Wi-Fi, port charges, and airport transfers are included.

Secure Your Place on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey

The Pearls of the Danube Golf Cruise is more than a trip—it is a sensory journey through Europe’s finest landscapes and championship courses. With only one sailing in 2026, this is your opportunity to combine sport, culture, and luxury in a way that will create lifelong memories. Space is limited, and this exclusive voyage is expected to sell out quickly. Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today to reserve your suite and experience a journey where golf, European culture, and refined indulgence come together in perfect harmony.

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*Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your Vacation Consultant.

Croatia & Montenegro: Sailing the Adriatic Aboard Royal Clipper

Why this cruise belongs on your bucket list. Imagine waking up each morning on a majestic tall ship: white sails soaring above, teak decks beneath your feet, and the endless blue of the Adriatic stretching to the horizon. That’s what you get on the Royal Clipper, the world’s largest fully-rigged sailing ship, offering a blend of old-world charm and sea-faring romance that few cruises can match. From Dubrovnik’s 16th-century walls to Montenegro’s fjord-like bays, this sailing connects vibrant cities and tranquil coves, offering a Mediterranean adventure that’s both culturally rich and deeply relaxing.

Summer 2026 Mediterranean Escape

Experience the magic of the Adriatic this summer aboard the Royal Clipper, the world’s largest fully rigged sailing ship. With departures in June, July, and August 2026, this voyage combines classic tall-ship adventure, stunning coastal scenery, and charming ports from Italy to Montenegro.

Book select 2026 sailings, and enjoy the following Expedia® Extra:*

  • $150 Onboard Credit Per Cabin

A Journey Through Iconic Ports

Sailing roundtrip from Venice, this itinerary immerses travelers in the rich diversity of the Adriatic. The ship glides past the sunlit seaside charm of Pesaro, then into Šibenik, where medieval walls and winding streets meet a sparkling waterfront. The legendary Dubrovnik beckons with its terracotta rooftops and historic ramparts, while Kotor in Montenegro dazzles with a fjord-like harbor framed by cliffs. The tranquil island harbor of Komiža on Vis offers hidden coves and calm waters, before the romantic Venetian-influenced streets of Rovinj provide a perfect final taste of coastal culture.

Discover Onshore Experiences at Your Own Pace

From historic city walls to quiet island beaches, every port presents its own adventures. Stroll Dubrovnik’s limestone streets, sip coffee in Rovinj’s waterfront cafés, hike Kotor’s fortress trails, or explore Komiža’s sun-soaked coves. These self-guided moments allow guests to create a personalized itinerary, blending culture, history, and leisure exactly how they like.

Tall Ship Sailing Like No Other

The Royal Clipper is more than a cruise ship—it’s a fully rigged sailing vessel with 42 sails, sweeping decks, and open-air spaces that capture the romance of the sea. With fewer than 230 guests, the ship offers intimacy and freedom rarely found on larger vessels. Guests can climb the rigging for panoramic views, relax on the bowsprit netting above the water, or unwind in the three-level atrium.

The Perfect Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

Days at sea offer gentle relaxation, while the voyage itself becomes part of the experience. Whether you’re soaking in the Adriatic sun, enjoying a deckside cocktail, or feeling the wind in the sails, each moment blends serenity with adventure. The slow, unhurried pace allows travelers to fully embrace the magic of sailing along one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.

Why This Sailing Belongs on Your Summer Bucket List

For travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and true maritime romance, the Royal Clipper’s 2026 sailings through Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro offer a rare, immersive Adriatic experience. From Venetian canals to medieval towns, fjord-like bays, and sun-soaked islands, every stop is a new discovery. With the intimacy of a boutique ship, expansive open decks, and the thrill of sailing under canvas, this is a voyage where both the journey and the destination are unforgettable.

What are you waiting for? Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today to reserve your cabin and claim your exclusive onboard credit — set sail into the Adriatic this summer for a journey unlike any other.

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*Term and conditions: Prices are per person, double occupancy in U.S. Dollars, and include all port charges and fees. Offer is time sensitive and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Air travel/flights can be arranged from select US gateways at an additional cost. Other restrictions apply. Valid for citizens of the US or Latin America only. Not valid with groups. Contact Star Clippers for further details. The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to wind, weather and local conditions. Restrictions apply, see website for details. Star Clipper GSA, Inc. dba Star Clippers Americas acts only as a sales and marketing agent for Star Clippers, Ltd. for purpose of booking travel arrangements on Star Clippers vessels. Star Clippers, Ltd. operates the vessels on which you will be sailing. Star Clippers 2025. Ship's Registry: Malta. ST# 37231.

Terms & Conditions

*Expedia Extras offers are per stateroom (unless otherwise stated) on select sailings, based on double occupancy, apply to new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without notice. Certain restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions, click the specific Expedia Extra offer or contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant.

Prices are per traveller, available within last 24 hours and valid for US and Canadian residents only. Taxes, fees, and port expenses are included. Fuel supplement may apply. Savings advertised and Expedia Extras are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Availability & prices can change frequently, please continue with the booking to check latest availability & prices.

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At Expedia Cruises, we are navigators of spectacular vacation experiences. As part of the number one brand in travel, this is our promise to you:


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Rhoda Bowman
Vacation Consultant